Strengthening Cybersecurity in the Oil and Gas Industry: Safeguarding Critical Operations

The oil and gas industry is confronting an alarming reality: its vulnerability to cyber threats. The wake-up call came in May 2021 with the Colonial Pipeline attack, exposing the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures. Factors like digitalization and the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime have heightened the industry’s susceptibility. To protect critical national infrastructure, oil and gas companies must prioritize cybersecurity as an essential pillar of their digital strategy. In this article, we will explore the impact of cybersecurity on the oil and gas market and delve into the key cybersecurity value chains that can fortify the industry against emerging threats.

The Impact of Cybersecurity on the Oil & Gas Market:

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the operating environment for oil and gas companies, leading to an increase in cyberattacks. Opportunistic attackers targeted remote-working employees who were navigating unfamiliar digital territories. Now, more than ever, oil and gas companies recognize the importance of safeguarding their operations from cyber threats. By investing in cybersecurity, companies can protect their assets, ensure operational continuity, and maintain the trust of their stakeholders.

Navigating the Digitalization Wave: 

Technological advancements, ranging from artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), have transformed the oil and gas industry. These innovations offer remarkable benefits, streamlining operations and enhancing competitiveness. However, embracing digitalization also opens up new avenues for cybercriminals to exploit. As technology becomes more intricate, organizations must adapt by adopting a proactive and vigilant cyber-aware stance to thwart attacks and protect critical assets.

Key Cybersecurity Value Chains: 

To fortify their defenses, oil and gas companies must focus on key cybersecurity value chains:

  1. Hardware: Safeguarding mission-critical servers and safety-critical applications requires protecting chips from cyberattacks. Companies are increasingly designing their chips to ensure greater control and resilience against threats.
  2. Software: A robust software infrastructure is essential for mitigating cyber risks. Areas such as identity management, network security, threat detection and response, cloud security, data security, email security, application security, unified threat management, and vulnerability management must be prioritized to establish comprehensive protection against cyber threats.
  3. Services: Addressing cybersecurity challenges can be complex, requiring specialized expertise. Outsourcing services such as managed security services, post-breach response services, and risk and compliance services can provide the necessary knowledge and resources to stay ahead of vulnerabilities, detect and respond to threats effectively, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

The Future of Cybersecurity in Oil and Gas: 

The Colonial Pipeline attack sent a clear message that cybersecurity concerns continue to pose a significant threat to the oil and gas industry. Industry leaders anticipate that cybersecurity will remain a disruptive force in the coming years. As the world grows increasingly unpredictable, the critical nature of oil and gas infrastructure amplifies the risk of cyberattacks. The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), coupled with inadequately protected infrastructure, makes oil and gas companies prime targets during future conflicts. Consequently, investing in robust cybersecurity measures is not only crucial for survival but also for maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

In an era where cyber threats abound, the oil and gas industry must take decisive action to fortify its cybersecurity posture and protect critical operations. By investing in hardware, software, and services that address emerging cyber threats, companies can ensure operational continuity, protect valuable assets, and preserve the trust of stakeholders. The ever-increasing engagement with cybersecurity reflects its paramount importance in the industry, making it a chief concern that demands immediate attention.

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

The Importance of Prioritizing Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Your Company’s Future

Recognizing the High Stakes

In today’s interconnected world, the significance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Yet, despite the abundance of warnings and information available, many organizations neglect this critical aspect of their operations. Legacy tactics and outdated tools, combined with inadequate planning of cybersecurity programs, only serve to invite trouble and compromise the integrity of your company. As an experienced professional in the field of cybersecurity, I implore you to consider the consequences of disregarding this vital issue.

Alarming Realities: The Ever-Present Threat

The landscape of cyber threats is ever-evolving, as evidenced by the multitude of industry news and data depicting the insidious nature of cyberattacks. A recent report by the esteemed cybersecurity firm Sophos revealed that a staggering 97% of organizations experienced a breach within the last year alone. The spectrum of risks is wide-ranging from ransomware attacks to phishing scams and data theft. It is entirely plausible that your company, or those you closely collaborate with, may have already fallen victim to these cyber perils—or may do so in the near future.

The Costly Consequences: Beyond Reputational Damage

The economic ramifications of such breaches are truly eye-opening. In addition to reputational damage and legal fees, businesses face the costly repercussions of downtime and data loss. On average, the price tag associated with a breach exceeds $4 million, with ransomware attacks alone averaging nearly $2 million. While some may argue that these figures could vary, the underlying truth remains unchanged: the consequences are undeniably severe.

Data Valuation: Dispelling Dangerous Assumptions

Gone are the days when an excuse like “we don’t possess valuable data” suffices for ignoring cybersecurity. Virtually all businesses, regardless of their size or industry, collect and store sensitive information. This can include customer data, financial details, or even intellectual property. Furthermore, the fallout from inadequate cybersecurity measures extends beyond your own organization. When one company suffers a breach, it can propagate throughout the supply chain, causing a domino effect of financial loss and reputational harm.

The Ethical Imperative: Protecting Those You Serve

Choosing to disregard cybersecurity is not only financially irresponsible but also ethically wrong. Businesses, as well as the professionals driving them, carry an inherent duty to safeguard personal customer information and employee data. Negligence in this regard can have far-reaching implications, affecting the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals.

Universal Vulnerability: No Company is Immune

It is important to realize that hackers do not discriminate based on company size or industry. They will exploit any business that possesses valuable data. Cybersecurity is no longer a luxury or an afterthought; it has become a fundamental necessity. Ignoring it is akin to neglecting physical security measures such as locks and alarms. As cybercriminals continually evolve their tactics, it is imperative that your cybersecurity measures keep pace. Too often, headlines reveal that at some point in the chain of events, a crucial misstep occurred, leaving organizations vulnerable for days, weeks, or even months before the ultimate breach occurred.

Emphasizing Comprehensive Measures: Principles Over Products

To effectively protect your organization, it is crucial to prioritize cybersecurity principles over individual products and tools. Emphasize comprehensive and proactive security principles, such as active visibility, monitoring, detection, and resolution of anomalous conditions across applications, identities, behaviors, infrastructure, cloud, endpoints, and data. Furthermore, cybersecurity awareness should encompass critical areas such as patching, monitoring, DevOps, and disaster recovery.

Ignorance is a Costly Mistake

Statistics unequivocally demonstrate that cyberattacks pose a prevalent threat to  businesses of all sizes. The cost of ignoring these risks is far too high to ignore. Failing to acknowledge the value of your company’s data leaves you vulnerable to attacks and further victimization. As a responsible professional, it is your duty to safeguard your organization’s future by prioritizing cybersecurity and ensuring that comprehensive measures are in place to protect against potential threats. Remember, ignorance is not bliss—it is a costly mistake that no business can afford to make.

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Harnessing the Power of NIST Cybersecurity Framework for SMEs

Today, I am excited to delve into a topic that continues to be of paramount importance to our clients and partners — cybersecurity. Specifically, I would like to shine a light on the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework and why it’s the best fit for companies with fewer than 1,000 employees.

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. As SMEs, we may not have the vast resources that larger corporations possess, but that does not mean our cybersecurity efforts should be any less robust. That’s where the NIST Cybersecurity Framework comes into play.

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is an adaptable, voluntary set of guidelines developed to help organizations of all sizes manage and reduce cybersecurity risk. It’s not an all-or-nothing package; it provides an array of options that companies can select and customize according to their specific needs and capacities.

So, why is it particularly beneficial for businesses with under 1,000 employees?

  1. Scalability: Unlike rigid security standards, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework is scalable. Regardless of your company’s size, you can adapt the framework to suit your cybersecurity needs, ensuring you don’t needlessly expend resources on inapplicable security measures.
  2. User-friendly: The Framework was designed to be understood by everyone in your organization, from your IT department to your executive suite. This makes it easier to integrate across all levels and fosters a more cohesive cybersecurity culture.
  3. Prioritization: It helps companies prioritize their security efforts. Smaller companies often lack extensive cybersecurity budgets, so understanding what areas to prioritize is crucial. The NIST Framework assists in identifying the most pressing risks and allocating resources effectively.
  4. Improved Vendor Management: Many SMEs outsource IT services, and having a standard framework can help manage and evaluate these vendors’ security postures. This enhances the overall security chain and promotes a shared responsibility approach.
  5. Reputation and Trust: Compliance with the NIST Framework signifies to stakeholders – customers, partners, regulators, and the public – that your company takes cybersecurity seriously. This builds trust and enhances reputation, critical aspects of business success in today’s digital age.

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework offers a highly flexible, user-friendly, and practical approach to managing cybersecurity risks, especially for companies with fewer than 1,000 employees. It’s not a silver bullet but offers a pathway towards a robust and resilient cybersecurity posture.

Until next time, stay safe and secure in the digital world.

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Phishing in Academia: Unraveling the Cyber Threats Beneath the Surface

Phishing attacks have become an increasingly common threat to individuals and organizations worldwide, and educational institutions are no exception. Ineffective and outdated security practices, undetected vulnerabilities, and increased sophistication of attacks combine to make educational institutions a potential target for attackers. This article discusses the new-age phishing attacks and tips for educational institutions to stay safe.

With widespread online learning and remote work after the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions are becoming a prime target for malicious actors looking to steal confidential and sensitive information or install malicious software on school and student information systems. As more educational institutions rely on technology to provide their services, it is essential to understand the risks associated with phishing threats and take proactive steps to safeguard against them to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of valuable educational information systems.

This article will explore the nature of phishing attacks against educational institutions and how the attack vector is getting more advanced, leveraging technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Machine Learning (ML). It examines the potential impact of such attacks and how institutions can protect themselves against them. Examining real-world examples of successful phishing attempts against educational institutions can provide valuable lessons in preventing similar incidents. By being aware of the threats and implementing effective security measures, academic institutions can protect themselves and their students from the potentially devastating consequences of a phishing attack.

Statistics: Phishing Against Educational Institutions

Education is the third most targeted industry by phishing attempts worldwide after Finance and Healthcare. There were almost 3.2 million phishing attempts against institutions in the education sector in 2021-2022. Some statistics and trends on phishing against educational institutions based on available data are as follows:

  • Education saw a 44% increase in cyberattacks in 2022 compared to 2021.
  • There are around 2000 attacks per week per organization against educational institutions, or a 114% increase compared to 2020.
  • Educational institutions are the least competent in preventing data from getting encrypted in a cyber attack. Higher education reported the data encryption rates at 74%, and lower education was only a little behind at 72%.
  • Six out of ten (62%) educational institutions in the UK reported facing cyberattacks like phishing at least once a week. By contrast, primary schools (12%), secondary schools (23%), and further education colleges (20%) faced fewer breaches. (Official Government Data)

Phishing Attacks – The Tip of the Iceberg

Human-created or mass-spam-type phishing attacks are merely the tip of the iceberg, considering the phishing problems faced by educational organizations. AI-based spear phishing attacks can cause catastrophic consequences in the rapidly changing modern threat landscape.

Adversaries combine data from breaches with Artificial Intelligence to target education end users with highly sophisticated phishing and ransomware attacks. Following are some ways malicious actors can misuse AI and target educational institutions:

  • Human Impersonation on social networking platforms.
  • AI-based texts, images, and videos to target teachers and students.
  • AI and ML to improve algorithms for guessing users’ passwords.

Critical Risks Related to Phishing in the Post-Pandemic Digital World

Following are the key risks educational institutions are facing in the post-COVID digital world:

  1. AI-Based phishing: Threat actors are now taking in every bit of breached data available on the internet and combining it with AI to target and attack users. As phishing attempts’ sophistication grows, it worries some of the most prominent organizations worldwide. The latest Zscaler ThreatLabz Phishing Report states that global phishing attacks rose 29% over the past year to a record 873.9 million attacks.
  2. Poor detection of polymorphic malware: Polymorphic malware uses polymorphic code that changes rapidly – every 15-20 seconds! Most educational institutions deploy anti-malware with traditional signature-based detection techniques to detect and block malicious code. However, with polymorphic malware code, the malware would have changed into something new when the software identifies the new signature. Most security solutions can’t keep up with such evolving malware and cannot detect the threats.
  3. Account takeover fraud: Account takeover (ATO) fraud is an identity theft type common today. In ATO attacks, the bad actor poses as a genuine customer to gain control of an online account, make unauthorized changes and transactions, or sell the verified credentials. Malicious actors carry out ATO fraud in bulk by utilizing credential-stuffing tools and bot attacks. They quickly verify stolen login credentials and make it seem their login attempts originate from multiple IP addresses to bypass security systems. The bots can perform over 100 attacks per second, making it faster and easier for attackers to commit numerous account takeovers.
  4. The growing number of IoT devices: The pandemic increased the number of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, with teachers conducting online lessons. The rising number of IoT devices and lack of adequate security measures created opportunities for attackers. Shared Wi-Fi passwords, loose security policies, and inefficiently designed IoT infrastructure led to various vulnerabilities that opened doors for malicious actors to access educational systems networks.
  5. Risks in cloud services: While cloud services are flexible and offer various benefits, including cost-saving, scalability, and efficiency, they are the primary target for threat actors. Misconfigured cloud services are backdoors for cyber-attacks, leading to data breaches, unauthorized access, insecure interfaces, and account hijacking.

How Educational Institutions Can Protect Themselves Against New Phishing Threats

Educational institutions hold significant confidential and sensitive information, including students’ and their parents’ personal and financial details. Many universities also collaborate with government agencies on cutting-edge research, drawing the interest of other national threat actors. Thus, it becomes crucial for them to protect against new-age phishing threats. Following are some ways they can do so:

  1. Leveraging AI-Based anti-phishing solutions: The application of AI in digital security has several benefits. Detecting vulnerabilities and anomalous patterns within extensive networks is a tedious and complicated task for humans. With AI, educational institutions can analyze data from multiple endpoints faster and more efficiently, quickly detecting threats and vulnerabilities before the malicious actors plan attacks. AI-powered Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) detect dubious and unusual traffic over regular traffic that enters a network.
  2. Eliminating local admin rights and managing global admin rights: Giving admin rights to users who don’t require them is a widespread problem that makes malicious actors’ activities easier. Compromising admin-users’ credentials gives them free rein to move about the network, change configurations, install applications, and encrypt or steal data. Educational institutions must maintain efficient user account management with admin permissions across the network (For example, Domain Admins in a Microsoft domain). It includes monitoring the membership of admin groups and changing their passwords when the institute terminates someone who knows those passwords.
  3. Selecting a trusted partner in the cybersecurity journey: Schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions need the best cybersecurity solution that learns and evolves after encountering new threats. A trusted partner will build security layers, such as anti-malware, secure gateways, firewalls, patching software, and other measures to build a strong defense. The layered cybersecurity approach is the safest way to protect devices and data in a continually changing environment. If one layer, for example, a firewall, gets compromised, additional layers will be in place to ensure your data remains untouched.
  4. Knowing what your network looks like: A practical way to assess your cybersecurity posture is to understand how the attackers view your network. They should only see websites, not admin consoles, file servers, databases, or anything else on an internal network. Institutions must regularly scan the Internet-facing systems to know and limit their exposure. Universities can find various commercial solutions and open-source tools that do an excellent job of assessing network risk factors. Additionally, the US Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and some state governments offer vulnerability scanning for free.
  5. Educating faculty, students, and staff: It is crucial to set a security policy that includes passwords, the internet, email, acceptable use policies, etc. Depending on the technology and processes, the policy will set procedures and rules that everyone on the campus must follow while using school Wi-Fi and devices. Once finalized, institutions must publish the security policy to a few easily accessible locations and forward it to new users as an initial step for setting up accounts and devices. It’s essential to keep your faculty and staff aware and educated by holding monthly or bi-monthly training so that they can learn about new threats and brush up on detecting phishing emails.

Malicious actors are constantly refining their techniques and are increasingly targeting educational institutions due to the wealth of sensitive information they hold. AI-based phishing attacks are a particularly concerning threat to schools, and it is crucial for them to be able to detect, monitor, and prevent such attacks before they can cause harm. Colleges and universities should adhere to basic cyber hygiene to protect themselves in the ever-evolving threat landscape. They must also work with trusted partners who can provide them with efficient and state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions to help them avoid becoming the next ransomware headline.

In addition to basic cybersecurity hygiene, educational institutions should implement multi-factor authentication, regularly backup data, and provide training to staff and students to raise awareness of potential threats. They should also conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities promptly. By taking these proactive steps, educational institutions can protect their sensitive data and prevent costly and damaging cyber attacks.

References

  1. (2019, August 27). 5 tips for schools battling a rise in cybercrime. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Avast.com website: https://blog.avast.com/cybersecurity-tips-for-schools
  2. Rathnayake, D. (2022, November 10). Artificial Intelligence, a new chapter for Cybersecurity? Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Tripwire.com website: https://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/artificial-intelligence-new-chapter-cybersecurity
  3. Crumbaugh, J. (2022, October 10). How AI and machine learning are changing the phishing game. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from VentureBeat website: https://venturebeat.com/ai/how-ai-machine-learning-changing-phishing-game/
  4. (2020, November 23). How cybercriminals misuse and abuse AI & ML: Report trend micro. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Dynamicciso.com website: https://dynamicciso.com/how-cybercriminals-misuse-and-abuse-ai-ml-report-trend-micro/
  5. Kyrouz, W. (2023, January 17). 5 cybersecurity tips for higher education institutions. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Dark Reading website: https://www.darkreading.com/vulnerabilities-threats/5-cybersecurity-tips-for-higher-education-institutions
  6. Lee, J. (n.d.). What will the post-Covid fraud landscape look like? Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Persona website: https://withpersona.com/blog/what-will-the-post-pandemic-fraud-landscape-look-like
  7. Marozas, L. (2020, August 13). We need to rethink cybersecurity for a post-pandemic world. Here’s How. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from World Economic Forum website: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/08/rethink-cybersecurity-post-pandemic-world/
  8. Mascellino, A. (2022, October 14). Education sector experienced 44% increase in cyber-attacks over last year. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Infosecurity Magazine website: https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/education-experienced-44-increase/
  9. (2021, March 25). Polymorphic Malware and Metamorphic Malware: What You Need to Know. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from Hashedout website: https://www.thesslstore.com/blog/polymorphic-malware-and-metamorphic-malware-what-you-need-to-know/

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Securing Texas: Columbia Advisory Group’s Impact on Statewide Cybersecurity

Over the past few years, Columbia Advisory Group (CAG) has been instrumental in helping improve the State of Texas’ cybersecurity posture. CAG has completed over 200+ Texas Cybersecurity Framework (TCF) assessments of State of Texas Agencies and Higher Education Institutions.   The TCF is a NIST 800-53/171-based framework assessment for the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR). The TCF offers a uniform language for addressing and managing cybersecurity risk cost-effectively, aiming to bolster cybersecurity without imposing additional regulatory burdens on agencies. The TCF is aligned with the NIST framework, offering five continuous functions that concurrently manage cybersecurity risks: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. These functional areas are encapsulated within 42 total security control objectives, guiding organizations in identifying, assessing, and managing their unique cybersecurity risks.

CAG’s proficiency in handling these functions has been a cornerstone in successfully implementing the TCF. By comprehensively navigating through these security control objectives, CAG has enabled valuable insights into each agency’s cybersecurity posture, leading to the identification and resolution of potential vulnerabilities.

The TCF also incorporates a maturity model that helps organizations better understand, manage, and reduce cybersecurity risks. The concept of “maturity” in this context refers to the degree of implementation and optimization of processes, ranging from ad hoc practices to actively optimized processes. CAG’s adeptness in determining the maturity level of each security control objective has significantly aided the agencies in progressing towards higher maturity levels, thereby enhancing their cybersecurity readiness.

CAG’s extensive involvement in the execution of TCF assessments illustrates a deep understanding of the framework and a capacity to apply it effectively across a diverse range of agencies, including the TxDOT, Texas Tech University, Health and Human Services, PUC, Texas Parks, and Wildlife and the Secretary of State among others. CAG delivers up to 40 TCFs annually via an MSA with a Texas-based multinational service provider on the DIR contract.

CAG’s expertise and commitment to bolstering Texas’s cybersecurity landscape provide a compelling case study of a successful public-private partnership. CAG’s approach to the TCF has dramatically improved the digital resilience of the Texas public sector, demonstrating the potential for such collaborations to manage large-scale cybersecurity challenges successfully.

The story of CAG’s work with the Texas DIR illustrates how a public-private partnership, when underpinned by a deep understanding of an effective cybersecurity framework, can significantly enhance the security posture of public sector entities. The benefits of this approach extend far beyond cybersecurity readiness, fostering a more informed workforce that remains the first line of defense against cyber threats.

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Phishing Prevention for Educational Institutions: Key Characteristics to Look For in an AI-Powered Anti-Phishing Technology Solution

In the digital age, educational institutions face the increasing risk of phishing attacks which can compromise students’ sensitive information. This article provides insight into how educational institutions can choose the right AI-Powered anti-phishing solution to strengthen their security controls against such threats.

Phishing attacks have become an increasingly prevalent and persistent threat to organizations of all sizes, and educational institutes are no exception. As institutions of higher learning become more dependent on digital systems and online communication, the likelihood of falling victim to phishing attacks also increases.

Educational institutions can use AI (Artificial Intelligence) to power anti-phishing solutions. However, with numerous options on the market, it can be difficult and confusing to determine which solution will best meet their needs. This text will explore the essential characteristics to look for in an AI-powered anti-phishing technology solution to help educational institutes protect their sensitive information and maintain the trust of their stakeholders. The right solution can always ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive and confidential data of the institutions.

Statistics: Phishing in the Education Sphere

The following are some alarming statistics concerning phishing and other cyber attacks targeting the educational sector.

  • According to the 2021 Netwrix Cloud Data Security Report, most educational organizations encountered phishing attacks (60%) and account compromise (33%) in 2020.
  • The K-12 Cybersecurity Center reported a record-breaking 408 cybersecurity incidents across 377 school districts in 40 states.
  • Cyberattacks targeting educational institutions increased by 75% in 2023.
  • In 2021, the education sector ranked as the third-largest industry targeted by spam and credential phishing attempts, numbering over 2 million.

What Makes Educational Institutions a Lucrative Phishing Target?

Educational institutions have become a lucrative target for malicious actors for several reasons, as listed below. It shows how vital the need for advanced phishing prevention methods for educational institutions is.

  • Research Material, Patents, IP: Innovation and patenting are crucial aspects upon which universities rely heavily for economic growth. Threat actors seek to disrupt these critical activities and the associated benefits they provide, making them a prime target for cyberattacks. The institutions store valuable intellectual property, including research material, patents, and other sensitive information that threat actors can monetize for their gain.
  • Lack of Expert and Experienced Security Personnel: Many educational institutes lack expert and experienced security personnel to monitor and protect their digital infrastructure, making them an easy target for cyberattacks. Additionally, the lack of experienced personnel implies that universities may need help implementing adequate security measures.
  • Changing Phishing Tactics: Another reason educational institutes are a prime target for malicious actors is the constantly evolving nature of phishing tactics. Such attacks often employ sophisticated techniques that can trick even the most tech-savvy individuals into giving away their personal information. As remote learning and digital communication practices become widespread, phishing tactics are becoming more sophisticated, making it more challenging for educational institutes to protect their staff and students.

Two Main Ways Through Which Threat Actors Target Educational Institutions

The following points show how threat actors can infiltrate restricted databases of educational institutions and what attack vector vectors they use to carry out their malicious operations.

  • Outdated or Unpatched Systems: Threat actors can infiltrate obsolete or unpatched systems of educational institutions by exploiting known vulnerabilities in software, operating systems, or applications that haven’t been updated or patched. They can use tools like port scanners to find open ports and identify vulnerable services. Once they gain access to the system, they can install malware, steal data, or use the system to launch further cyberattacks.
  • Variety of Phishing Techniques: Phishing is a tried-and-true method for malicious actors, and they often use it to camouflage malware as a message from a reliable and trustworthy source. These threat actors often deploy social engineering tactics through email, phone calls, or text messages (smishing), with email being the most favored method. The threat actors request access to privileged information or provide links to malicious attachments to deceive the recipient into downloading malware.

Note: Social engineering is a practice through which threat actors manipulate human psychology to lure unsuspecting targets into revealing sensitive information or acting in line with their objectives. Many educational institutions, particularly vulnerable to cyber threats with inconsistent and insufficient security training, are prime targets for these attacks. For instance, in 2017, MacEwan University in Edmonton, Canada, lost $11.8 million when a staff member became the victim of a phishing attack where the threat actor impersonated a vendor in an email requesting a change in the banking information.

What Educational Institutions Can Do to Keep Their Students Safe and Information Assets Secure

As is evident from the above sections, the cyber threat to universities, colleges, and schools is here to stay, and strict and immediate action is vital for all educational institutions. The following security measures and approaches will help them go a long way in protecting their critical data assets.

  • Endpoint Security: The concept of endpoint security may take time to capture one’s attention, but it is critical in the digital age. Endpoints, such as laptops, phones, and other devices, are vulnerable to cyber attacks, which may take the form of phishing incidents or other direct and indirect attempts. Endpoint-focused cybersecurity solutions are necessary to identify and address malware issues that traditional email and phishing defenses may overlook, especially for educational institutions.
  • Cybersecurity Expertise: Educational institutions and universities must work with IT administrators possessing expert cybersecurity knowledge. Increasingly sophisticated cyber-attacks necessitate more than a traditional IT team with limited cybersecurity expertise. Several public sector groups have established new cybersecurity roles to address this critical need. Educational institutions on tighter budgets can also go for vCISOs (Virtual Chief Information Security Officers) or the CSaaS (Cybersecurity-as-a-Service) models.
  • Use of AI as a Predictive Tool: One practical approach is to leverage AI technology to detect and prevent phishing attempts before they can cause any harm. AI can analyze factors such as email metadata, sender reputation, and message content to identify suspicious emails and flag them for review or automatically block them. Such a proactive approach can help reduce the risk of successful phishing attacks, especially as threat actors become more sophisticated in their tactics.
  • Selecting a Trusted Solution Provider: A trusted solution provider is critical to protecting educational institutions from phishing. The process of selecting one involves choosing a security vendor that has a proven track record of providing reliable and effective cybersecurity solutions and one that is up-to-date with the latest threats and trends in the cybersecurity landscape. By working with a reputable vendor, educational institutions can ensure they have access to the best tools and expertise to help mitigate the risk of phishing attacks.

Key Characteristics to Look For in an AI-Powered Anti-Phishing Solution

Here are key characteristics and aspects that educational institutions should look for and consider while selecting AI-powered anti-phishing solutions:

  1. Ease of Implementation: By prioritizing ease of implementation, academic institutions can simplify the deployment process, reduce the risk of errors, and ensure quick performance. Therefore, an ideal anti-phishing solution should be cloud-based and platform-agnostic, allowing it to be installed and operated seamlessly across multiple devices. It should work quietly in the background without disrupting the educational institutions’ productivity or daily activities.
  2. The MSP/MSSP’s Reputation and Support:  A reputable MSP (Managed Service Provider) or MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider) with a history of providing high-quality anti-phishing solutions can instill confidence in an educational institution, indicating that they are partnering with a trustworthy and reliable provider. Moreover, a robust support system provided by the MSP/MSSP can offer a safety net for educational institutions, as they can seek expert guidance and support in addressing any issues that may arise. It can be crucial for institutions with limited IT staff or cybersecurity knowledge.
  3. Quality of Service: Educational institutions should prioritize the quality of service offered by an AI-powered anti-phishing solution. Quality of service is essential to maintain the security and integrity of the institution’s network and data and to ensure the safety of its students, faculty, and staff. The solution should be designed to provide reliable and efficient protection against phishing attacks while guaranteeing minimal disruption to daily activities and should be regularly updated.
  4. IT Environment Setup: The efficacy of any anti-phishing solution also depends on the specific IT environment in which it is deployed. By assessing the IT environment, educational institutions can identify unique characteristics or requirements that must be considered in selecting an anti-phishing solution. Evaluating the IT environment can also help them determine the scope of the anti-phishing solution, ensuring that it is tailored to meet their specific needs and providing the essential features and capabilities to detect and mitigate phishing attacks effectively.

Phishing attacks are a significant threat to educational institutions as they target students and faculty members, compromising sensitive information and damaging institutional reputation. AI-powered anti-phishing solutions can help prevent these attacks by detecting and mitigating phishing attempts in real-time.

With an AI-powered anti-phishing technology solution, educational institutions can enhance their cybersecurity posture and protect their sensitive data and resources from the growing threat of advanced phishing attacks. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, investing in state-of-the-art anti-phishing technology is essential for educational institutions to secure their digital infrastructure and protect their staff, students, and other stakeholders.

References
  1. Daly, A. (2021, August 24). 6 characteristics of the ideal phishing software solution. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Inky.com website: https://www.inky.com/en/blog/6-characteristics-of-the-ideal-phishing-software-solution-2021
  2. Goled, S. (2020, October 4). AI is A double-edged sword in phishing. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Analytics India Magazine website: https://analyticsindiamag.com/ai-is-a-double-edged-sword-in-phishing/
  3. Landau, S. (2021, July 9). 7 phishing awareness and anti-phishing tips for the education sector. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from eLearning Industry website: https://elearningindustry.com/anti-phishing-awareness-tips-for-education-sector
  4. The top 5 cyber threats within the education sector. (2022, June 7). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Avertium.com website: https://www.avertium.com/resources/threat-reports/top-5-cyber-threats-within-education
  5. Bresnick, P. (2021, March 8). 4 Reasons Cyber Criminals Are Targeting Higher Education: Part 1 Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Fierceeducation.com website: https://www.fierceeducation.com/best-practices/4-reasons-cyber-criminals-are-targeting-higher-education-part-1

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Top 5 Reasons Why Educational Institutions Are Soft Targets for Phishing And Malware Attacks and 7 Ways to Prevent Them

Educational institutions are always considered soft targets for cyber attacks because they contain massive volumes of data, and many of them are often not adequately secure. Here is a look at their vulnerabilities and ways to prevent cyber attacks from compromising their information assets.

Despite the financial and manufacturing sectors being lucrative targets for cyberattacks due to their profitability, they are fortified by sophisticated cybersecurity measures, making them less accessible to threat actors. Conversely, the health and education sectors, rich with confidential client and customer data, are often viewed as more vulnerable targets due to comparatively less robust security practices. This vulnerability is particularly evident in higher education institutions, which often face a higher number of cyber incidents. Here we explore why educational institutions are soft targets for cyber threats like phishing and malware and how they can enhance their enterprise network systems’ confidentiality, integrity, and availability to better defend against these attacks.

Critical Threats Facing Educational Institutions in 2023

Educational institutions have a massive amount of data in their databases. Besides, many do not employ the most robust cybersecurity strategies to protect their information assets due to budgetary constraints and other reasons. In addition, the pandemic forced almost all institutions to conduct their classes online, and most were ill-equipped to do so. Thus, malicious actors got the opportunity to exploit their digital vulnerabilities and launch cyber attacks on their network systems. Here are some critical cyber threats facing the educational sector in 2023.

  1. Phishing: Statistically, educational institutions have the maximum number of social media users, making it attractive for malicious actors to launch social engineering attacks through phishing. The Verizon Report underscores phishing as the most critical threat to educational institutions.
  2.  Malware/ Ransomware: The FBI has stated in its alert that ransomware activity continues to plague the educational sector, including many colleges and K12 schools in the US.
  3.  Data Breaches: Since educational institutions contain significant volumes of confidential data but do not necessarily have robust cybersecurity measures, data breaches are a critical threat. IBM’s DBIR 2022 estimates the cost of a data breach in the educational sector to be around $3.86 million.
  4. Unpatched and outdated software: The Verizon Report shows that unpatched and outdated software systems rank amongst the primary causes of cyber attacks on educational institution information network systems.
  5. Cyberbullying: With almost every student having access to smartphones and the internet, instances of cyberbullying are on the rise. The Cyberbullying Research Center report states that about 37% of students have experienced cyberbullying.

Phishing and Malware Attacks Against Educational Institutions: Statistics

As evident from above, educational institutions are popular soft targets for malicious actors. The following statistics show a snapshot of the cyberattack landscape of the educational sector.

  • CISCO 2021 Report states that the educational sector is the second-highest targeted sector for phishing and malware attacks after financial institutions.
  • According to Emsisoft’s year-end report, 1981 schools were hit by ransomware attacks in 2022, almost double the number from 2021.
  • Educational institutions witnessed a steep increase of 75% in cyber attacks in 2022.

Why Are Educational Institutions a Soft Target For Phishing And Malware Attacks?

Cyber threat actors relish uncertainties, and the pandemic presented them with many on a platter, especially from the education sector, because a significant part of education switched to online, and most institutions were ill-equipped to handle the change. Moreover, educational institutions have been a perennial soft target for phishing and malware attacks. Here are some reasons for it.

Large volumes of research and confidential data

Educational institutions contain massive volumes of data, including student credentials, financial information, valuable intellectual property, and vast research data. Therefore, threat actors can access highly credible information if they infiltrate the educational institution’s information network systems, which makes schools, colleges, universities, and research centers lucrative targets for malicious actors.

Multiple people accessing educational network information systems

University campuses usually offer accessible Wi-Fi facilities to their students and users. Threat actors can use such networks and compromise Wi-Fi connections to launch ‘evil-twin’ attacks to exfiltrate confidential information from unsuspecting and insecure users. Since multiple people access the institution’s information network systems, it can be challenging to identify such attacks.

Perimeter focused environment

Usually, educational institutions focus on establishing a security perimeter to prevent malicious actors from accessing their networks. In the process, they concentrate less on insider threats and ignore the possibility that someone might have already accessed their information network system and already be creating mischief. Unfortunately, this myopic approach makes educational institutions vulnerable to advanced malicious actors.

Comparatively fewer security measures

Though university campuses and schools aim to secure their information network systems and prevent malware and phishing attacks, many have less stringent security measures, like in the financial and other business sectors, due to budgetary constraints and other reasons. Employing comparatively fewer security safeguards puts these institutions at a higher risk of a cyber attack.

Supposedly less awareness among users

While educational institutions are highly vulnerable, all of them do not usually employ top-level cybersecurity professionals to oversee their security strategies. As a result, there needs to be more awareness among their employees and vendors who access their systems. Besides, the steady stream of fresh students annually flowing into these institutions results in more users with lower awareness levels accessing various data. As a result, it widens the scope of the cyber attack vector for malicious actors to launch phishing and malware attacks.

Steps Educational Institutions Can Take to Prevent Malicious Attacks

As educational institutions are highly vulnerable to cyber attacks, securing their cybersecurity infrastructure becomes a top priority. The education sector can employ the following strategies to prevent malicious attacks and protect its information assets from data breaches and ransomware incidents.

Strengthen the Wi-Fi security using WPA3 connections and compatible devices

Every internet device must be WPA3 compliant today, as cybersecurity professionals globally consider this connection standard the most secure. Furthermore, since educational institutions usually offer free Wi-Fi to their students, employees, and other users within the campus, it becomes imperative to strengthen the Wi-Fi connections by using WPA3 protocols.

Improve incident detection and response, and data monitoring systems.

Traditionally, human error is a primary vulnerability that educational institutions and other organizations encounter. Therefore, they should improve their network and data monitoring systems to prevent malicious activities. It can help quarantine the affected assets if identified on time. Secondly, there should be an increased focus on incident response strategies because time is crucial when an incident takes place. The longer the delay in responding to an incident, the greater the damage.

Keep network systems and devices up-to-date with vulnerability scanning and effective patch management.

Cyber attackers keep looking for new vulnerabilities and innovative ways to infiltrate information network systems. Therefore, educational institutions should ensure efficient vulnerability scanning and deploy appropriate patch management strategies to address cyber threats. The standard protective control measures include application firewalls, anti-virus software, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), data loss prevention (DLP), URL filtering, and email security.

Ensure effective IAM and PAM systems are in place.

Insider threats are challenging to detect because malicious actors, in that case, are people who know the systems and their vulnerabilities better than external attackers. Therefore, educational institutions should have proper network segmentation to prevent lateral and horizontal movement. In addition, they should employ effective IAM (Identity and Access Management) and PAM (Privileged Access Management) systems to ensure that authorized users get only activity-based access to the information network system following principles like ‘least privilege’ and ‘need to know.’

Improve user education and ensure proper user control measures.

Proper user education can help stop cyberattacks before they occur. Therefore, every educational institution should disseminate quality information on cyber hygiene and ensure suitable user control measures. For example, maintaining password hygiene can prevent data breaches and IoT attacks. In addition, proper cyber hygiene can help users identify phishing and social engineering attacks before they occur.

Hiring the right managed security service provider (MSSP) and advisors.

While encouraging users to maintain self-cyber hygiene is critical, educational institutions should also focus on hiring qualified managed security service providers (MSSPs) and advisors. It helps the system to remain updated with the latest and most robust security measures to prevent cyber attacks. In addition, quality cybersecurity staff ensure excellent backup support during emergencies.

Leverage specialized services.

Traditional anti-phishing software and tools can help deal with regular attacks. However, malicious actors employ advanced AI-based techniques to launch innovative attacks, prompting educational institutions to use specific AI-based tools for anti-phishing and state-of-the-art endpoint security. Specialized vendors provide these services that help prevent phishing and malware attacks.

Parting Thoughts

Cyber threat actors often target the path of least resistance when attempting to breach information network systems. Regrettably, educational institutions frequently fall into this category due to often insufficient security measures and IT staffing to safeguard their data assets. This vulnerability makes these institutions appealing targets for cyber attackers. With these limitations in mind, it is crucial for these establishments to utilize cutting-edge AI-enabled anti-phishing tools and implement advanced cybersecurity strategies to safeguard user credentials and essential data assets.

References
  1. Quorum. Why Higher Education Institutions are a prime target for cyber-attacks? (2021, August 31). Quorum Cyber; Quorum Cyber Security Limited. https://www.quorumcyber.com/insights/why-higher-education-institutions-are-a-prime-target-for-cyber-attacks/
  2. Morgan, C. Why is the Education Sector a Target for Cyberattacks? Enterprise Network Security Blog from IS Decisions. https://www.isdecisions.com/blog/it-security/why-is-education-a-target-for-cyberattack/
  3. Critical Insight. (n.d.). Top 10 cybersecurity priorities for schools. Criticalinsight.com. Retrieved February 19, 2023, from https://www.criticalinsight.com/resources/news/article/top-10-cybersecurity-priorities-for-schools
  4. Muravyova, E., Utkin, A., & Valiullin, B. (2020, November). Determining the vulnerability of educational institutions in terms of the requirements of the program “My city to prepare.” Researchgate.net. Retrieved February 19, 2023, from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347036020_Determining_the_vulnerability_of_educational_institutions_in_terms_of_the_requirements_of_the_program_My_city_to_prepare
  5. Jalbout, M. (2019, July 17). Educating the most vulnerable: Universities’ greatest impact. Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/opinions/educating-the-most-vulnerable-universities-greatest-impact/
  6. Taylor, H. (2019, September 26). Ransomware and phishing issues in educational institutions. Preyproject.com. https://preyproject.com/blog/ransomware-phishing-educational-institutions Avertium. (2022, June 7). The top 5 cyber threats within the education sector. (n.d.). Avertium.com. Retrieved February 19, 2023, from https://www.avertium.com/resources/threat-reports/top-5-cyber-threats-within-education

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Securing Texas’ Defense Industry: Why CMMC 2.0 Compliance Matters for Manufacturers

Texas-based Defense Industrial Base manufacturers (DIB) are crucial in supporting national security initiatives. However, these companies must navigate the increasingly complex landscape of cybersecurity regulations to maintain their competitive edge. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of compliance with CMMC 2.0, a cybersecurity standard set by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), and how Texas-based DIB manufacturers can achieve and maintain compliance.

The Importance of CMMC 2.0 Compliance (source: CISA.gov) CMMC 2.0 is designed to ensure the security of sensitive government information on contractors’ networks (CISA, n.d.). Companies must demonstrate robust cyber protections against malicious actors and properly store and manage classified information. Failing to comply with CMMC 2.0 could result in losing lucrative government contracts and putting customers’ data and intellectual property at risk.

The Impact on Texas’ Defense Industry (source: raytheon.com) According to DTC Global Research and Raytheon Technologies Corp., federal contracts account for more than 40% of total economic activity in Texas’s defense industry sector (Raytheon Technologies, n.d.). Therefore, compliance with CMMC 2.0 is critical for Texas-based DIB companies to remain competitive, especially those involved in national security initiatives such as missile defense and space exploration.

Achieving CMMC 2.0 Compliance: Five Steps for Texas Manufacturers To achieve full CMMC 2.0 compliance, Texas manufacturers can take the following steps:

  1. Update Internal Policies: Ensure your internal policies align with current regulations and best practices (CISA, n.d.).
  2. Conduct Regular Assessments: Regularly assess your existing cybersecurity infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
  3. Implement New Controls or Upgrade Existing Ones: Actively work to enhance your cybersecurity measures by implementing new controls or upgrading existing ones (CISA, n.d.).
  4. Establish Employee Training Programs: Develop a training program focused on cybersecurity awareness to help employees understand and mitigate potential threats (CISA, n.d.).
  5. Hire a Certified Third-Party Auditor: Engage a certified auditor who can independently assess your systems and guide how best to comply with CMMC 2.0 requirements (CISA, n.d.).

For Texas-based defense manufacturers, complying with CMMC 2.0 standards is essential to remain competitive in the government contracting market. By taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity and following best practices, these companies can protect their networks from potential threats and secure high-value contracts from the DoD in the coming years.

 

References: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). (n.d.). Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Retrieved from https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-maturity-model-certification-cmmc

Raytheon Technologies. (n.d.). Texas Defense Industry. Retrieved from https://www.raytheon.com/texas-defense-industry

 

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

Strengthening Cybersecurity: The Imperative of Testing Controls against PRC State-Sponsored Cyber Attacks in Texas Mid-Market Manufacturing Firms

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recently issued an advisory (AA23-144A), underscoring the persistent threat posed by PRC state-sponsored cyber actors. This advisory detailed how these actors employ the Living off the Land technique, exploiting commonly used software, tools, and protocols, and blending their malicious activities within regular network traffic. Consequently, the threat is difficult to detect and can linger undetected within networks for extended durations.

Faced with such sophisticated threats, firms must proactively test their cyber controls. The importance of identifying system vulnerabilities susceptible to exploitation using the Living off the Land technique cannot be overstated. Testing controls also presents the opportunity to understand the modus operandi of these cyber actors, enabling firms to adopt proactive measures to counter these threats.

The mid-market manufacturing firms in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) in Texas operate in a world of unprecedented cyber threats, with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored cyber actors being of notable concern. These malicious actors use a technique referred to as “Living off the Land,” leveraging legitimate processes and services within a system to infiltrate and evade detection. Understanding why these firms should robustly test their cyber controls in this context is crucial for national security and industrial resilience.

Today’s globalized marketplace has created interdependencies that significantly threaten national security. For example, Texas, a significant contributor to the U.S. DIB, has experienced the strategic focus of PRC’s cyber actors on mid-market manufacturing firms. These organizations, often less equipped to withstand sophisticated cyber threats than larger counterparts, are considered soft targets, and their compromise can negatively impact U.S. defense capabilities.

One primary reason to test cyber controls is the proliferation of the Living off the Land technique. This strategy sees PRC state-sponsored cyber actors exploit commonly used software, tools, and protocols, effectively masking their activities amidst regular network traffic. It’s an alarming prospect, given that these attacks are hard to detect and can persist in networks undetected for extended periods.

Thoroughly testing controls provides an opportunity to identify vulnerabilities within the system that may be exploited using the Living off the Land technique. It also allows organizations to understand how these actors operate, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate the risk of infiltration.

Moreover, the constant evolution of cyber threats necessitates the frequent testing of controls. The PRC’s cyber capabilities are evolving, continuously seeking new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in their targets. Staying ahead of these threats requires constant vigilance, regular review, and updating of cyber controls. The ability to anticipate and swiftly respond to these ever-changing threats hinges on a keen understanding of the landscape, which is only achievable through regular testing.

Additionally, the potential economic impact of a successful cyber-attack on mid-market manufacturing firms cannot be overstated. From production disruptions to the leakage of sensitive information, the financial repercussions can be crippling. Such firms play a significant role in the Texas economy, and the broader U.S. DIB, and their compromise could have a cascading effect on the economic and security landscape.

The regulatory environment necessitates robust testing of cyber controls. For example, regulations such as the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) require that DIB contractors demonstrate a level of cybersecurity maturity that matches the sensitivity of their work. Regular testing of controls helps meet these regulatory requirements but also helps create a cybersecurity culture within the organization.

All in all, testing cyber controls in mid-market manufacturing firms in Texas within the DIB is not a choice but a necessity. To remain resilient, these firms must adopt robust and frequently tested controls amid sophisticated PRC state-sponsored cyber threats. By understanding and preempting the techniques used by malicious actors, these firms can maintain the integrity of their networks and continue to contribute safely and securely to U.S. defense capabilities.

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

A Deep Dive into the Updated GLBA Safeguards Rule

On December 9, 2021, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) introduced final regulations amending the Standards for Safeguarding Customer Information, a critical component of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) mandates on customer privacy protection. The alterations, effective from June 9, 2023, impact postsecondary institutions and highlight changes in the Department of Education’s (Department) enforcement of GLBA stipulations. Consequently, institutions are urged to update their practices to meet the requirements of the revised rule.

Under the previous GLBA Safeguards Rule, postsecondary institutions and third-party servicers agreed to shield student financial aid information related to the administration of Federal student financial aid programs. This obligation extended to include all Federal Student Aid applicant information and any data obtained from the Department’s systems for administering Title III and Title IV programs.

The Department has consistently encouraged these institutions to adhere to GLBA requirements and adopt security standards, such as NIST 800-171, to fulfill ongoing obligations under GLBA. As a result, institutions have been subject to periodic audits to ensure compliance with GLBA requirements.

The newly revised GLBA Safeguards Rule brings a refreshed understanding of customer definition and new requirements for safeguarding information. Customer information, as defined by the rule, refers to data procured while providing a financial service to a current or former student. The main objective of the GLBA standards is to ensure student information’s security, protect against threats, and prevent unauthorized access.

Institutions must develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive written information security program featuring nine critical elements to achieve these objectives. These include designating a qualified individual for implementing and overseeing the program, basing it on a risk assessment, implementing safeguards to control identified risks, and regularly testing and monitoring its effectiveness, among other things. Institutions with fewer than 5,000 consumers must address only the first seven elements.

In April 2022, the FTC released a publication titled “FTC Safeguards Rule: What Your Business Needs to Know,” which serves as a compliance guide for entities. It provides in-depth information about the nine required elements and outlines what a good security program should look like.

Failure to comply with the Safeguards Rule after June 9, 2023, the effective date, may affect an institution’s participation in the Title III and Title IV programs. The Department plans to resolve GLBA findings from a compliance audit or other means by evaluating the institution’s information security safeguards to determine its administrative capability.

In cases where an institution or servicer is found not to comply with the Safeguards Rule, they will need to revise their information security program and provide the Department with a Corrective Action Plan (CAP). Repeated non-compliance may result in administrative action by the Department, affecting the institution’s or servicer’s participation in Title III and Title IV programs.

The Department intends to issue further guidance on NIST 800-171 compliance. However, it reiterates that meeting GLBA requirements differs from complying with NIST 800-171 and encourages institutions to integrate information security controls required under NIST 800-171 as soon as possible.

Where can I find more information? For additional information, see FSA’s electronic announcement: Updates to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act Cybersecurity Requirements. If you have questions regarding the Department of Education’s enforcement of GLBA, please get in touch with FSA_IHECyberCompliance@ed.gov. More information is also available on the Federal Trade Commission’s website. Updates to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act Cybersecurity Requirements | Knowledge Center

Brad Hudson

Cybersecurity Practice Leader

About Columbia Advisory Group

Founded in Dallas in 2012, Columbia Advisory Group LLC (CAG) is an established IT consulting firm renowned for delivering cost-effective, meaningful, and practical IT solutions that solve complex business problems. Our seasoned teams offer comprehensive insight across diverse regulatory and economic environments, providing unbiased, straightforward analysis and recommendations. We pride ourselves on our deep understanding of IT while remaining software and hardware-agnostic. Regardless of your organization’s growth trajectory or economic landscape, we at CAG are adept at adapting to your unique needs and complexity, offering tailored solutions to drive your success.

Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.